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Longton Brickcroft Nature Reserve

The reserve has three large ponds with a number of smaller dipping ponds around the site, which were formed by excavations when the site used to be a brickworks.

The whole area acts as an oasis in the middle of housing and of intensively-cultivated land. There are few remaining areas of such diverse habitats in the North West, and the swamp habitat is especially valuable.

A wide range of wildlife can be observed from the pathways including a changing population of birds that enjoy the habitat of the south lake. The visitor centre and displays around the paths contain informative displays on the site's history and the wildlife you can find there.

In 1997 Longton Brickcroft received the prestigious national Green Flag Award and has retained it every year since.

Rangers run an educational programme for school children and other groups, perform practical maintenance and generally interpret the reserve for visitors. The site also has a dedicated group of volunteers, the Friends of Longton Brickcroft Nature Reserve, helping to look after it.

Longton Brickcroft Visitor Centre

Opened in 1993, the centre attracts more than 30,000 visitors a year to enjoy the displays and interactive features.

In 2001 a new extension to the visitor centre was opened, which gave the opportunity to expand displays and encourage better use by schools and local groups.

The centre is generally open Thursday to Sunday, 12.30pm to 4pm. To check the centre is open, staff at the reserve can be contacted on 01772 611497.

Finding Longton Brickcroft Nature Reserve

Address: Liverpool Road, Longton, PR4 5YY.

Longton Brickcroft is easily accessible by both public transport and car, and is approximately six miles from junction 1A of the M65 motorway. Pedestrian access can be gained to the site at several locations with a car park for visitors located off Liverpool Road to the west of the reserve.